Thursday, March 6, 2008
Founded in 1962, the Judo Club allows students of all skill levels to learn the combat techniques of Judo and show off their skills in tournaments.
Judo is a modernized version of the ancient martial art, Jujutsu, which was used in feudal Japan. The sport involves specialized pins, control holds and arm locks, as well as throwing and choking techniques.
Club president Chad Steele, Lawrence senior, began learning Judo five years ago.
“The thing I like most about Judo is the aggressive and physical style it has compared to other martial arts, which are weak and boring,” Steele said.
Two judo combatants spar on Aug. 19, 2007. Judo Club lets students practice a modernized version of the ancient martial art of Jujutsu.
He said, during meetings, members begin by stretching and conditioning because Judo emphasizes safety. After warming up, the members practice throws and ground attacks before sparring.
Chris Coen, Prairie Village sophomore, joined the club after taking Judo as an elective.
“(Judo) is a great thing to know,” Coen said. “It’s a fun way to exercise and learn some techniques that are applicable.”
In addition to the exercise aspect of the sport, Judo is also a method of self-defense. Practices involve uchikomi, which is partnered standing practice, and randori, controlled sparring.
“Judo is a great way to get exercise while choking people,” Steele said.
Despite the aggressive nature of the sport, however, attitudes at Judo tournaments are not hostile. Club member Tim Bogner, Kansas State University graduate from Winfield, said the goal of tournaments is to practice Judo and build friendships around the sport. He said he has noticed camaraderie develop not only between members of the Judo Club at the University of Kansas, but also between members of different teams.
“We still play competitively, but it isn’t as though we’re out to hurt each other,” Bogner said. “Even if, for instance, a member of my club is in a bout with a member of another club and the other guy manages to throw our guy, we’ll probably still applaud him if it was a very well-executed technique.”
To join the club, each member must pay a $25 fee, which goes toward traveling for tournaments and entrance fees. Funding from Student Senate subsidizes these costs.
“It’s well worth the money, especially because we travel a lot,” Steele said.
Bogner started practicing Judo through the club last year. He said he has noticed major improvements since his first tournament.
“I would definitely recommend the club to other people,” Bogner said.
No level of skill is necessary to join. The club meets Tuesdays, Thursdays and Sundays from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. in the Martial Arts Room of the Student Recreation and Fitness Center. Those interested in joining can send an email to judo@ku.edu.
—Edited by Jared Duncan
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